DAVIS COUNTY, Utah — A pilot at Hill Air Force Base was forced to eject from his plane and taken to the hospital after a crash Wednesday.
Officials said an F-35 A Lightning II crashed at about 6:15 p.m. at the north end of the base runway.
The crash happened while the pilot was on a routine training mission, officials explained.
Emergency crews from on and off the base immediately responded to the scene.
After the ejection, the pilot was recovered and transported to a hospital for observation. He was released later Wednesday night, officials reported.
Video from a FOX 13 News viewer shows the wing of a plane as well as some smoke and flames right after the crash.
The crash caused a small wildfire, named the "Strip Fire." Local, as well as state fire crews, worked to extinguish the blaze, which was about eight to ten acres.
The fire was quickly put out but crews stayed on the scene to assist with hazmat and other needs, officials explained.
Five other F-35s from the 388th Fighter Wing were diverted to Salt Lake City International Airport after the crash and will return to the base soon. However, local flying was canceled Friday and there is no set date on when flying will resume.
The cause of the crash is under investigation by a board of officers.
Officials report this is the first crash involving an Air Force F-35A Lightning II. The last crash at Hill Air Force Base was an F-16 Fighting Falcon in 2009.
If any member of the public saw anything or finds anything that may be related to the crash, call 801-777-0911 or email 75abw.pa@us.af.mil
